Severe Weather

Storm intensifies as nor'easter moves through state

A powerful nor'easter moved into New Hampshire Friday night, bringing heavy snow and powerful winds.

Snow was falling at the rate of 2 to 3 inches per hour by 11 p.m. in some parts of the state. Snowfall rates of 1 to 2 inches per hour were expected to last through the night, piling as high as 1 to 2 feet by the time the storm moves away Saturday afternoon.

Gov. Maggie Hassan declared a state of emergency and urged drivers to stay off the roads to allow crews to try to keep them clear.

On the coast, there were concerns that high winds and the high tide could cause some coastal flooding. As waves crashed above the seawall, officials warned people to stay away from the area. The waves can be dangerous, hurling rocks above the wall.

"The Seacoast in particular, this storm may have higher winds and heavier snow, so people should be paying attention throughout the day to the most up-to-date weather information they have," Hassan said.

The governor also urged people to look in on their neighbors, particularly those with special needs or the elderly, and while there are no plans to open any shelters, that could change.

Well before the worst of the storm, the roads were already getting slippery. State police Col. Robert Quinn said all available troopers will be on the roads. He said even people with four-wheel drive vehicles shouldn't ignore the hazardous conditions ahead.

"Quite often, we see individuals with four-wheel drive that have gone off the road," Quinn said. "Just follow the warning signs that are posted if we reduce speeds, and just take your time and drive slow. Get home safely."

Residents along the Seacoast were under a blizzard warning, with high winds expected along with possible coastal flooding. Forecasters predicted offshore waves of 25 to 30 feet, and officials said areas that usually flood in bad storms will likely be flooded.

Copyright 2013 by WMUR.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.